Ukraine's military offensive in Russia's Kursk region continues, with Kyiv claiming significant Russian casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that nearly 15,000 Russian troops have been irreparably lost in the fighting, while a total of 38,000 are estimated to have been killed in the region. This follows Ukraine's surprise incursion into Kursk last year.
The renewed offensive, launched over the weekend, appears aimed at seizing as much territory as possible before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. While Kyiv hasn't officially commented, a senior Ukrainian official expressed satisfaction with the Russian response. Russia launched nearly 100 attacks in the area in the past 24 hours in an attempt to counter the gains.
These developments underscore the ongoing intensity of the conflict and the strategic importance of the Kursk region. Meanwhile, international allies continue to support Ukraine's efforts. The EU and US have affirmed their commitment to Ukraine's defense, highlighting the legitimacy of targets within the region under international law.
Zelensky's call for temporary territorial concessions in exchange for NATO membership further complicates the situation. This raises the crucial question of potential compromises amidst the ongoing conflict. Other international leaders, such as French President Emmanuel Macron, also emphasized the necessity for realistic discussions on territorial questions and urged the West to find ways to engage Russia.
European leaders like Macron have called for realistic discussions, hinting at possible territorial concessions, while urging for a Western approach that helps Russia move towards negotiations. However, Russian Patriarch Kirill voiced opposition to the Western stance, claiming a fundamental ideological conflict. This further exemplifies the deep divisions fueling the war.
